Tips for Wintertime Fishing in the Palmetto Area Riviera Dunes Marina Blog

Tips for Wintertime Fishing in the Palmetto Area

Don’t let the recent colder weather discourage you from your wintertime fishing adventures! You might not think that fish will be biting when it’s cold out, but certain fish, such as sheepshead, black drum and redfish, actually thrive in the cooler temperatures. Here are a few tips for fishing during colder weather:

Dress appropriately.

First, make sure you have proper gear when wintertime fishing in Palmetto and the surrounding areas. The winter months can bring some rain, which can cause more spraying than usual when you’re on your boat. Pack your raincoat and bring your rubber boots so that you’re guaranteed to stay warm during your excursion.

Keep an eye on the cold fronts.

Wintertime fishing also brings the cold fronts to the Palmetto area. Be patient and wait for the cold fronts and accompanying stormy weather and windy weather to pass through. After a few days, the water becomes more calm and warm. This is the best time to get out on the water since the fish are very active! While monitoring the cold fronts, you can also check a barometer for water pressure levels. Increasing pressure levels also make for a great time to fish during the winter months. When the water pressure is decreasing or stagnant, you won’t have the best luck fishing.

Know where to look.

Due to the colder weather, fish like to gather in deep holes or shallow flats where the water temperature is warmer. Sheepshead, in particular, prefer to congregate around reefs, piers and docks, while you’ll have more luck finding black drum in private canals.

Bring the right bait.

Live shrimp are known for attracting the most fish during colder temperatures. To entice the fish to come out of their warm water nooks, clip the tails of your shrimp to release a stronger scent in the water. Artificial bait can work as well, just make sure you are being patient when reeling in as any abrupt movement might scare them off.

Next: 7 Tips for Staying Safe in Winter Weather